UAE becomes Zimbabwe’s leading export destination, surpassing South Africa and China
The United Arab Emirates has emerged as Zimbabwe's primary export destination, accounting for 40.5% of total exports in June 2026, according to the latest Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe monthly report. This positions the UAE ahead of South Africa, which held 30.7% of exports, and China, with 21.1%. Exports from Zimbabwe to the UAE have significantly increased, rising from under US$525 million in 2017 to US$2.62 billion in 2024. Key Zimbabwean exports to the UAE include tobacco, sulphur, cement, precious metals, and raw hides and skins. Both nations are also working to strengthen economic ties, with negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement expected to conclude soon. This agreement aims to enhance bilateral trade, attract investments, and improve market access for goods and services. Despite the shift in export destinations, South Africa remains Zimbabwe's leading source of imports, contributing 30.6% in June, followed by China at 17.8%.
